Glossary - K

Keylogger

A keylogger is surveillance software capable of recording all the keystrokes a user makes and saving that to a log file, which is usually encrypted. A keylogger recorder captures information entered on a keyboard including instant messages, email and any other type of information. Some keyloggers record email addresses the user uses and URLs that are visited. The log file created by the keylogger can then be sent to a designated receiver.

As a surveillance tool, keyloggers, are often used in the workplace by employers ensuring work computers used by employees are for business purposes only. However, keyloggers can be embedded in spyware allowing the user's information to be sent to an unauthorized third party.